Pip Atkinson's women's rugby legacy commemorated by Parliament

An Early Day Motion (EDM) has been tabled by Sarah Dyke, Liberal Democrat MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, recognising Ms Atkinson’s “remarkable contribution” to the sport in England.

It highlights her sporting journey from Butleigh and Millfield School to Loughborough University, where she switched from modern pentathlon to rugby. She went on to represent England at the 1999 Women’s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Ms Dyke said: "Pip Atkinson has made an extraordinary contribution to women’s rugby, both on and off the pitch.

"From representing her country at the highest level to nurturing the next generation of players here in Somerset, her dedication is truly inspiring.

"This Early Day Motion is an opportunity to recognise not only her achievements in the sport, but also the lasting impact she has had in opening up rugby to more women and girls.

"I hope colleagues across the House will join me in celebrating Pip’s legacy and her continued work in our community."

Ms Atkinson’s place in sporting history was cemented in 1986 when she played for Great Britain in the inaugural women’s rugby international against France.

Next month marks the 40th anniversary of that match, which will be commemorated at Richmond RFC.

Beyond her playing career, Ms Atkinson went on to coach the national women’s sevens team at the Hong Kong Sevens tournament.

Since retiring from elite sport, she has continued to promote rugby at the grassroots level, helping to establish a tag rugby club in Butleigh and encouraging young people, particularly girls, to take up the game.